Staff Reporter
THE Namibian Government has expressed concern that the escalating conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could spread to other African countries, and has therefore reiterated calls to intensify efforts to find a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict.
“Namibia is alarmed that, if a diplomatic solution is not attained soon, the conflict has the potential to spill over into neighbouring countries, with all the hallmarks of breaking out into a regional conflict. Namibia reiterates the need to redouble regional efforts in finding lasting solutions to the conflict in our sister country, because regional peace and stability are both prerequisites for economic development and regional integration,” the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation’s Executive Director, Ambassador Penda Naanda, said.
He stressed that the Namibian Government is monitoring with great concern the escalating conflict and the deteriorating security situation in the eastern DRC. He expressed hope that regional mediation and diplomatic efforts will bring about lasting peace in the DRC and defuse tensions between the DRC and the Republic of Rwanda, while reaffirming the UN Charter and its principles of resolving disputes among nations through diplomatic means.
“Namibia echoes SADC’s statement and reiterates solidarity with the people of the DRC while lauding their resilience in the face of military bombardment by the M23 and other armed groups. Namibia further calls on all parties to exercise restraint and spare civilian lives, allowing humanitarian aid to reach the affected areas unhindered, while reiterating the appeal of the African Union for the international community to mobilise all possible support for the affected populations in the eastern part of the DRC,” Naanda said.
He also expressed condolences to the families of soldiers who lost their lives in clashes with M23 rebels and called for an end to violence in the DRC and across Africa.
